Mandrake Root
"The shrieking horror of the plant world, the Mandrake Root, is the bane of those who harvest it and the treasure of alchemists."Mandrake Root is a strange plant who has the appearance of a small person in its root, but when uprooted gives off a horrifying shriek that can knock anyone nearby unconscious. The root is used in healing concoctions to dull pain, as is felt when consuming a Potion of Healing, but is also used in several charm potions because of its hallucinogenic properties. Individuals who harvest it often use Earmuffs of Silence in order to counteract its shriek.
~ Rina Olaven
Properties
Material Characteristics
The plant above ground is fairly inconspicuous. It has large green leaves and a distinct purple flower that smells slightly bitter. The true distinction is the root, which has two legs and two arms along with a face.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Mandrake Root is a narcotic and hallucinogenic.
Geology & Geography
Found in temperate regions, grows in fertile, firm ground.
Itherion
History & Usage
History
Legends say that the Mandrake used to run along the ground like many creatures. The wild boar had found a liking to the Mandrake, getting enjoyment out of its hallucinogenic properties. The Mandrake started burying itself to hide from the boar, but the boar started to use its tusks to dig it out of the ground and then chase it down.
The Mandrake was getting tired of being bullied by the boar, and so begged to Temp to give them a weapon to combat the boar. Temp did not respond, so the Mandrake screamed to get his attention. When they screamed the Mandrake found that Temp had granted them a voice that could knock out a foe, so when pulled out of the ground the Mandrake could get away. In time, fear of uprooting the Mandrake made it lazy and unable to run using its legs and so the Mandrake is today.
Discovery
Everyday use
Mandrake Root is used to create a pain relieving extract to assist in surgeries and magic.
Cultural Significance and Usage
Mandrake Root inspired the creation of the spell Scream of the Mandrake and is used as a material component for the spell.
Refinement
In order for the Mandrake Root to have use, it must be diced and mashed before being boiled in water. This distillation creates a potent juice.
Manufacturing & Products
Hazards
Upon uprooting the Mandrake, the root unleashes an incredible shriek that risks knocking anyone in the nearby area unconsious. This however only lasts one minute before the Mandrake Root goes inert for good.
In high doses Mandrake Root can result in terrible hallucinations and lead to possible indefinite madness and paranoia.
Distribution
Trade & Market
Farmers are capable of growing it, however it takes specialized facilities to properly harvest with safety.
Storage
One the root is inert, it can be stored in a cool, dry location.
Law & Regulation
Itherion
The Conclave of Races has forbidden the growing of Mandrake Root in urban centers, those who do grow Mandrake must ensure that they are taking the correct safety procautions for those working the land.
Type
Biomaterial
Rarity
Uncommon
Odor
Dirt
Taste
Bitter
Color
Dark Brown skin, White meat
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